[October
29, 2012]The single best way to protect against
seasonal flu and its potential severe complications is to get a flu
vaccine every year. Are you or a member of your family at increased
risk of getting the flu or experiencing flu-related complications?
Although the flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age
and older, the following groups are at increased risk of getting the
flu or experiencing complications related to the flu.

Children are at
higher risk for the flu because their immune systems are not
fully developed. Children with chronic health conditions are at
even higher risk.

Changes to a
pregnant woman's immune system can make her more sensitive to
the flu. If you get the flu shot during pregnancy, it will
provide some protection to your baby after he or she is born.

Because your
immune systems weaken as you age, adults age 65 years and older
are more susceptible to the flu.

Not everyone with
disabilities is at high risk for the flu. You are at high risk
if you have limited mobility, may come in contact with a sick
caregiver or are unable to communicate your symptoms.

Certain types of inflammatory
arthritis, asthma, having or surviving cancer, diabetes, heart
disease and HIV/AIDS are all types of chronic health conditions
that increase the risk of getting the flu or experiencing
complications from the flu.

The hours for vaccines at the health department are Monday
through Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. No appointment is required.
The influenza vaccine will also be available on the HOPE Mobile
during its regularly scheduled stops.

The cost of the seasonal flu shot is $25 for adults, $16.75 for
children 6 months through 18 years of age who have no health
insurance or health insurance that doesn't cover vaccines, and free
to those with a Medicaid or Medicare card.

For more information on the seasonal influenza vaccine, call the
Logan County Department of Public Health at 217-735-2317.